Future technologies & enabling plasma Processes

RESEARCH

Building plasma science and engineering (PSE) research capacity in AL, including Low-Temperature Plasma (LTP) and space plasma science, in academic institutions and partners

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INTERNSHIPS

Supporting undergraduate and graduate education, training, and research opportunities, and encouraging and enabling access to plasma physics

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K-12 OUTREACH

Creating new educational and outreach resources and plans for  K-12 students and teachers, promoting plasma science and engineering (PSE) and general STEM

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Ftpp initiative

The NSF EPSCoR Future Technologies and Enabling Plasma Processes (FTPP) is a 10-member university and industry consortium. The project leverages Alabama’s laboratory and space plasma science expertise to contribute scientific knowledge, technologies, and workforce to Alabama’s aerospace, manufacturing, advanced materials, medical, bioscience, and agricultural sectors.

FTPP,alabama physics,plasma,plasma research,nsf,nsf epscor,internships,NSF EPSCOR FTPP,alabama,physics
Lead Institution: The University of Alabama in Huntsville
Principal Investigator: Dr. Gary P Zank
bama map
NSF EPSCoR Map

→ This image presents the collaboration among the partners.

events

Articles

What is plasma?

Plasma is a state of matter consisting of a collection of ionized particles, electrically neutral atoms, and molecules. It makes up more than 90% of the observable universe and underpins several high-tech manufacturing industries. Familiar forms of plasma include the sun, stars, lightning, neon signs, television screen displays, welder’s torches, and rocket exhaust.

@alabamaphysics
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NSF EPSCoR FTPP

Building research, education, economic, and workforce capacity through discoveries in space & lab plasma physics and creating innovative technologies.

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FTPP had a great time attending STEM Day at Alabama A&M University! Our graduate students volunteered as poster judges, supporting AAMU undergraduate students as they presented their research. Plasmy even made an appearance to join in the fun! 👀⚡️ Bonus: We spotted a cold plasma research poster in collaboration with FTPP investigators at both AAMU and UAH, exploring its effects on water uptake and seed germination. 🌱
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FTPP had a great time attending STEM Day at Alabama A&M University! Our graduate students...

Jakob Doster is an undergraduate student at Auburn University whose research focuses on using cold plasma to enhance chemotherapy effectiveness 🧪 His work on cancer treatment innovation has been accepted by the American Association for Cancer Research, highlighting the potential for improved therapeutic outcomes and advancing undergraduate contributions to medical research 🧬 🔗 You can find the full article on our website under News to read more!
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Jakob Doster is an undergraduate student at Auburn University whose research focuses on using cold...

🚨 DEADLINE EXTENDED! ONE MORE WEEK TO APPLY! 📝 Good news! The deadline to apply for our three internship programs has been extended. Don’t miss your chance to apply! ⭐ ISWC – Study space weather and space physics in this fully funded international experience with UAH & the German Aerospace Center (DLR). Earn course credit while gaining hands-on research experience in a rapidly growing field. ⭐ CIPTA – Work directly with private companies on real-world projects in plasma science and artificial intelligence while building professional skills through industry-based experiences. ⭐ RIPP – Explore undergraduate research opportunities across 6 institutions in Alabama and find the project that’s right for YOU. 📅 New Deadline: Sunday, March 1 Learn more and apply through the link in our bio! #nsffunded
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🚨 DEADLINE EXTENDED! ONE MORE WEEK TO APPLY! 📝

Good news! The deadline to apply...

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APPLICATION DEADLINE: 1 WEEK FROM TODAY!🚀
Click the link in our bio to learn about...

LAST CHANCE TO APPLY!⏰ The deadline to apply for our three internship programs is February 23, don’t miss out! 🚀 ISWC – Study space weather and space physics in this fully funded international experience with UAH & the German Aerospace Center (DLR). Earn course credit while gaining hands-on research experience in a rapidly growing field. 💡 CIPTA – Work directly with private companies on real-world projects in plasma science and artificial intelligence. Build professional skills through industry-based experiences. 🔬 RIPP – Explore undergraduate research opportunities across 6 institutions in Alabama and find the project that’s right for YOU. Apply by February 23 — learn more on our website, link in bio! #nsffunded
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LAST CHANCE TO APPLY!⏰

The deadline to apply for our three internship programs is February...

We had a BLAST at Rocket City Weather Fest 2026!!!🚀
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We had a BLAST at Rocket City Weather Fest 2026!!!🚀

Dr. Edmund Spencer is an associate professor of electrical engineering at the University of South Alabama whose research focuses on advanced satellite and space weather sensing technologies 🛰️ His work has led to the creation of a spinoff company developing single-board satellites capable of measuring space weather, earning a $1.9 million Department of Defense SBIR grant, venture capital support, and growing interest from the U.S. Space Force 🚀 🔗 You can find the full article on our website under News to read more!
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Dr. Edmund Spencer is an associate professor of electrical engineering at the University of South...

🎧 New Podcast from our Outreach Partner, IMAP! As the IMAP mission enters its Science Phase (Phase E), members of the IMAP team recently joined Planetary Radio to discuss the mission and what it will reveal about the structure of the heliosphere. Following a successful launch, L1 orbit insertion, and full commissioning, all 10 instruments are now fully operational and ready to support science operations and data analysis. We’re proud to partner with IMAP and to help support research that is advancing heliophysics and space science. Listen to the full Planetary Radio episode to learn more about IMAP’s science goals and the discoveries ahead. 🔗 Visit the link in our bio to listen. #IMAP #SpaceScience #AlabamaPhysics #SciencePodcast
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🎧 New Podcast from our Outreach Partner, IMAP!

As the IMAP mission enters its Science...

Congratulations to Syed Ayaz, UAH graduate student and first author, on this exciting new publication! 🎉 This research shows how inertial Alfvén waves play a key role in heating the solar corona and accelerating particles near the Sun, offering new insight into how energy is transported in the solar atmosphere. ☀️🛰️ The study highlights the impact of student-led research and advances our understanding of wave particle interactions in the Sun’s inherently non-thermal plasma. 👏 #alabamaphysics #FTPPAL #NSFfunded
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Congratulations to Syed Ayaz, UAH graduate student and first author, on this exciting new publication!...

Applications are open, and today we’re featuring the International Space Weather Camp (ISWC)! 🚀💡 ISWC gives students the opportunity to explore space physics and space weather, how the Sun impacts Earth’s atmosphere, satellites, and modern technology. This fully funded, international program brings together students from the U.S. and Germany for a month long experience of lectures, hands-on projects, experiments, and excursions at the University of Alabama in Huntsville and the German Aerospace Center (DLR). Students earn UAH course credit while gaining real-world experience in an exciting and rapidly growing field. Explore the opportunity and see if ISWC is the right fit for you! Visit our bio for more information! ➡️ #nsffunded
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Applications are open, and today we’re featuring the International Space Weather Camp (ISWC)! 🚀💡

ISWC...

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Plasmy and the FTPP family wish you a plasma-tastic New Year! May 2026 be fully...

Congratulations to Monika Karki, UAH Space Science graduate student and first author, on this exciting publication! This research reveals that different types of solar wind are shaped by distinct wave motions, providing new insights into how energy and turbulence travel through space from the Sun. ☀️🛰️ The publication features six UAH graduate student authors, highlighting the strength and impact of our student-led research. 👏 Outstanding work by Monika and the entire team! Read the publication via the link in our bio!
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Congratulations to Monika Karki, UAH Space Science graduate student and first author, on this exciting...

Applications are open, and today, we’re featuring the CIPTA program! 🚀💡 CIPTA gives students the opportunity to work directly with private companies on hands-on projects in plasma science and artificial intelligence (AI). With five industry-based projects available, students can gain real-world experience while building valuable professional skills. Explore the opportunities and find the project that’s right for you! Visit our bio for more information! ➡️ #nsffunded
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Applications are open, and today, we’re featuring the CIPTA program! 🚀💡

CIPTA gives students the...

Applications are open, and today, we’re featuring the RIPP program! 🔬✨ With projects for undergraduates offered across 6 institutions in Alabama, you’ll find a wide range of research opportunities to match your interests. Explore, discover, and find the project that’s right for YOU! Apply TODAY, link in bio! alabamaphysics.com
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Applications are open, and today, we’re featuring the RIPP program! 🔬✨

With projects for undergraduates...

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🚀 Summer STEM internships are now open for applications!

✨ Housing available
💸 Paid opportunities...

Dr. Laxman Adhikari’s doctoral-level turbulence didn’t just learn about research. They did research. Together, the developed a new framework to understand solar wind turbulence that’s been accepted for publication in the Astrophysical Journal. Learn more in our article, linked in bio. ✨🚀
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Dr. Laxman Adhikari’s doctoral-level turbulence class didn’t just learn about research. They did research. Together,...

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🎙️ Tune in today! Dr. Gary Zank joins @wlrh_89.3 Curiosity Squad at 4 PM CST...

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Honoring excellence in discovery: @uahuntsville ’s Dr. Gary Zank receives the 2025 John Adam Fleming...

☀️ How do energetic particles travel near the Sun? Nibuna’s latest study using Parker Solar Probe data shows how particles diffuse through the solar wind, revealing new insights into space weather and cosmic ray transport! 🚀 🔗 Link in bio to read the full article.
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☀️ How do energetic particles travel near the Sun? Nibuna’s latest study using Parker Solar...

✨ Thank you to everyone who joined us for Ready for Launch, in partnership with @imapspacemission ! 🚀 We had an incredible time exploring and celebrating the exciting science this mission will bring. The countdown is officially on… don’t miss it! ⏳ 👉 Follow @imapspacemission for details on how to watch the LIVE launch!
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✨ Thank you to everyone who joined us for Ready for Launch, in partnership with...

🚀 Join the FTPP “Ready for Launch!” event at @uahuntsville on September 20, 2025, from 2–5 PM in the Shelby Center (SST 301). Explore hands-on space science activities and discover the science behind NASA’s IMAP mission, launching just days later. The event is free and open to the public! Come learn with us! LINK IN BIO ➡️
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🚀 Join the FTPP “Ready for Launch!” event at @uahuntsville on September 20, 2025, from...

Happy Labor Day from all of us at FTPP! 💙❤️ Today we celebrate the hard work, dedication, and spirit that keep our community strong. Wishing everyone a safe and joyful holiday! 🇺🇸✨ #HappyLaborDay #FTPPFamily
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Happy Labor Day from all of us at FTPP! 💙❤️ Today we celebrate the hard...

📧 Stay in the loop! Want the latest updates, events, and news sent straight to your inbox? Subscribing to our email newsletter is quick and easy—just follow the steps in this post! Don’t miss out. #StayConnected #UAH
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📧 Stay in the loop! Want the latest updates, events, and news sent straight to...

From Huntsville to the stars 🌌✨ Our UAH PhD grads are making waves in plasma science! Read more about their journey in the article in our bio 🔗 #UAH #NSF #STEM
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From Huntsville to the stars 🌌✨
Our UAH PhD grads are making waves in plasma...

🌟Tomorrow’s PSE Leaders continues!🌟 Join us as Dr. Manjula Bomma shares how plasma treatment can help inactivate seed-borne pathogens in bell pepper seeds 🫑 A powerful step toward sustainable agriculture! 🌱⚡ 🔗 Watch the recorded webinar and see how plasmas are shaping greener solutions for the future. Link in bio!
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🌟Tomorrow’s PSE Leaders continues!🌟

Join us as Dr. Manjula Bomma shares how plasma treatment can...

Auburn physics PhDs are in the spotlight!✨ Thanks to NSF EPSCoR’s FTPP cooperative agreement, building on the earlier CPU2AL grant, three graduates are beginning tenure-track roles this fall at Colgate, Loras, and Sewanee. Read more by clicking on the article in our bio! ➡️📰
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Auburn physics PhDs are in the spotlight!✨

Thanks to NSF EPSCoR’s FTPP cooperative agreement, building...

🎉 Huge congratulations to Sujan Gautam, an FTPP/UAH Space Science student, for publishing two first-author papers! 🚀 One of his recent papers explores how different MHD wave modes — like Alfvén, fast, and entropy modes — behave during solar maximum vs. solar minimum. 🌞🌑 🔗 Check out the link in our bio to read more about his groundbreaking research! #SpaceScience #UAH #FTPP #StudentResearch #SolarPhysics #PlasmaScience #MHDwaves #Congratulations
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🎉 Huge congratulations to Sujan Gautam, an FTPP/UAH Space Science student, for publishing two first-author...

🚨 New Web Post Alert! 🚨 High school students spent the day at CSPAR at UAH diving into hands-on STEM activities and space science exploration! 🌌🧪 We love inspiring the next generation of scientists! Check out the full story — link in bio! #STEMOutreach #SpaceScience #CSPAR #UAH #FutureScientists #STEMEducation #K12Outreach #AlabamaPhysics
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🚨 New Web Post Alert! 🚨
High school students spent the day at CSPAR at...

Wishing you a safe and joyful Independence Day from the Future Technologies Enabled by Plasma Processes (FTPP) team. 🇺🇸 Happy 4th of July!
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Wishing you a safe and joyful Independence Day from the Future Technologies Enabled by Plasma...

This summer at Tech Trek, CSPAR teamed up with @imapspacemission to lead a hands-on space science workshop for 64 rising 8th-grade girls 🚀🔬 From solar wind to the edge of the solar system, we explored big ideas and sparked even bigger dreams 💫👩‍🔬 Check out our article in the Bio!
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This summer at Tech Trek, CSPAR teamed up with @imapspacemission to lead a hands-on space...

🚀 Soon, 8 students from across the Southeast U.S. will blast off to Germany for the International Space Weather Camp! Ready to explore space science, hands‑on projects, and global collaboration. From Alabama to Europe—to infinity and beyond! 🌍✨ If you'd like to explore more about this journey, you can read our full article link in bio.
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🚀 Soon, 8 students from across the Southeast U.S. will blast off to Germany for...

Shoutout to our 2025 FTPP Marketing and Outreach Intern, Rebecca Anderson! 🚀 “I’m excited to contribute to the world of marketing and business management by expanding my knowledge, sharpening my leadership skills, and diving deeper into innovative business strategies,” she shares. “This experience is more than an internship — it’s a stepping stone toward purposeful impact.” Tap the link below to read more about Rebecca’s role and journey! https://alabamaphysics.com/new-ftpp-marketing-intern-happy-to-gain-real-world-experience/ Rebecca will also be doing an Instagram story takeover on our account (@alabamaphysics) live from the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® 2025 Leadership Seminar in Anaheim, California! Be sure to tune in July 10–13 for an inside look at this inspiring event and all the leadership in motion!
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Shoutout to our 2025 FTPP Marketing and Outreach Intern, Rebecca Anderson! 🚀

“I’m excited to...

Big news from UAH🚀💙! A recent plasma physics review coauthored by Dr. Zank has received the IEEE Best Paper Award! This recognition highlights groundbreaking research and the incredible work coming out of the Center for Space Plasma and Aeronomic Research (CSPAR). Read the full article in our bio! #UAH #CSPAR #SpacePlasma #PlasmaPhysics #IEEE #STEMExcellence #ResearchMatters #DrZank #PhysicsNews #HuntsvilleAL
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Big news from UAH🚀💙!
A recent plasma physics review coauthored by Dr. Zank has received...

🎉 Exciting News! 🎉 We’re thrilled to share that the manuscript “Investigating Plasma Waves in the Earth’s Magnetosphere” has been selected as Editor’s Choice in the Journal of Plasma Physics! 👏 Special Congratulations to Jamiah, an undergraduate student at Oakwood University, for her outstanding contributions to this research. Her dedication and passion for space science are truly inspiring! 🔬 Dive into the research in the Link in the Bio!
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🎉 Exciting News! 🎉

We’re thrilled to share that the manuscript “Investigating Plasma Waves in...

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🌟 Tomorrow’s PSE Leaders continues! 🌟

Join us for the latest webinar featuring Dr. Kallol...

FTPP had an amazing time at NARSEF 2025 at UAH!🚀 We led an IMAP event, called “What Do You See?”, where students explored creativity’s role in STEM by turning a simple line into unique designs. ✨ 🌟 HIGHLIGHTS: ✅ 138 guests, including 98 student participants. ✅ Engaging discussion on open-mindedness & Innovation. ✅ Students enthusiasm for research & STEM. We love seeing young minds think outside the box! 🧠💡 #stem #NARSEF2025 #IMAP #creativity
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FTPP had an amazing time at NARSEF 2025 at UAH!🚀 We led an IMAP event,...

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Hey IMAP!’ was a blast! 🚀💡 Future scientists got the chance to chat with Dr....

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Curiosity knows no limits! 🚀✨ Had an incredible time with the ‘Hey IMAP!’ activity where...

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🚨 DEADLINE ALERT! 🚨

Time is running out! ⏳ Applications for the Summer 2025 FTPP...

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Curiosity sparks Discovery! 🔥🌟 Had an awesome time with the Hey IMAP activity! Having PHD...

🌍 Where can a STEM internship take you? How about to Germany AND your dream career! Apply now: alabamaphysics.com 🚀
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🌍 Where can a STEM internship take you? How about to Germany AND your dream...

🌟📚 From South Africa to the stars! Discover how Tumisho Gabanangata’s experience at the International Space Weather Camp expanded his knowledge of space physics and opened doors to new opportunities. 🚀 Your journey in space science starts here! 🔗 Link in bio to learn more and apply today.
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🌟📚 From South Africa to the stars!
Discover how Tumisho Gabanangata’s experience at the International...

🌟 Your future is waiting! Discover how Ash Colman turned her RIPP Internship into a stepping stone to Auburn’s Graduate School. 🎓 Don’t miss your chance to apply and create your own inspiring story! 🔗 Link in bio to learn more and apply!
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🌟 Your future is waiting!
Discover how Ash Colman turned her RIPP Internship into a...

Are you ready to take your skills to the next level? 🚀Meet Emmanuel Ramogi, who completed the Corporate Internship Plasma Training (CIPTA) program!🥽 “The research I conducted and the professional relationships I built during the program helped me secure my current position at Evonik,” he says. “Without this experience, I would not have had the same level of exposure to cutting-edge research or the opportunity to work at such an esteemed institution.” 📅 Applications are open now! Don’t wait—your story starts here! 🫶 🔗 Want to read more? The Link is in the bio!!
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Are you ready to take your skills to the next level? 🚀Meet Emmanuel Ramogi, who...

🫵Are you curious about our FTPP Internships? ✨ Check out the newest article in our bio about Kaitlyn Hemauer’s adventures through the ISWC Internship and her journey through South Africa! Don’t forget applications are live! So go apply!!🌟 Link is in the Bio! 🎓
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🫵Are you curious about our FTPP Internships? ✨ Check out the newest article in our...

🤩FTPP is Excited about our internship opportunities and wants YOU to apply! Yes, You!🫵 ➡️ Check out the website in our bio to learn more. About our internships: • RIPP: Regional Introduction to Plasma Physics - 9-week paid summer research internship program at an FTPP institution. • CIPTA:Corporate Internship Plasma Training in Alabama - 10-week paid summer internship program at an Alabama private company. • ISWC: International Space Weather Camp - Summer camp with University course credit, all-expense paid internship, including international travel to Germany. • SE REU: South Eastern Research Experiences for Undergraduates - Funded/Paid program for HBCU students to participate in quality REU programs at an FTPP partner institution.
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🤩FTPP is Excited about our internship opportunities and wants YOU to apply! Yes, You!🫵

➡️...

🎓CALLING ALL STEM UNDERGRADUATES AND GRADUATE STUDENTS🌟 Your time is now! Applications are LIVE for our four amazing summer internships programs. Advance in your career, develop deeper skills, and connect with industry experts. Spread the word!!! ✅LINK IS IN THE BIO #STEMInternships #FutureLeaders #FTPPInternships #FTPPAL #nsffunded
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🎓CALLING ALL STEM UNDERGRADUATES AND GRADUATE STUDENTS🌟
Your time is now! Applications are LIVE for...

From writing letters to IMAP to creating art with 'Communicating in Color' and exploring the '4 States of Matter', STEAMfest 2024 had us hands-on with science and creativity! Who knew learning could be this fun?✨ #NSFfunded #PlasmaPhysics #FTPPAL
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From writing letters to IMAP to creating art with 'Communicating in Color' and exploring the...

Thank you to everyone who joined us for a hugely successful 1st Annual International AL Plasma Physics Conference (AIAPC) – ‘AI-Informed Plasma Physics: the Opportunities’! We enjoyed insightful discussions, new connections, and a fantastic turnout in Huntsville. Your enthusiasm made it all possible, and we can’t wait to see you next year! #AIAPC #PlasmaPhysics #Huntsville #FTPPAL
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Thank you to everyone who joined us for a hugely successful 1st Annual International AL...

FTPP Named Program of the Year!🌟 UAH’s NSF-funded Future Technologies & Enabling Plasma Processes (FTPP) has won the 2024 256Today Innovator Award! Congratulations to Dr. Gary Zank and the team for advancing plasma science and driving new industries in Alabama! 🚀✨ #Innovation #PlasmaScience #256Today #alabama #nsffunded
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FTPP Named Program of the Year!🌟
UAH’s NSF-funded Future Technologies & Enabling Plasma Processes (FTPP)...

NSF EPSCor ftpp

About the cooperative agreement

FTPP involves a partnership comprising nine universities and a research corporation in Alabama and is funded through Cooperative Agreement OIA-2148653 by the National Science Foundation (NSF) through a Research Infrastructure Improvement (RII) Track-1 five-year grant within the Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR)*. The FTPP project is overseen by the Alabama EPSCoR Steering Committee.

* Disclaimer: The opinions, findings, and conclusions, or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.

vision

Alabama becomes a world-renowned hub for PSE (Plasma Science Engineering) by developing transformative future technologies (such as advanced materials, food safety and sterilization, space weather prediction) and building foundational plasma science research and industry with a skilled workforce.

Mission

FTPP will build research, education, economic, and workforce capacity in pursuit of making foundational discoveries in space and laboratory plasma physics and create future societally transformative technologies in the State of AL, utilizing Alabama’s statewide expertise in plasma science and technology.